Cougar Women's Basketball Poised for Big 12 Breakthrough

As the BYU women's basketball team enters the third year under head coach Amber Whiting, expectations are high for the Cougars to make a significant leap forward in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. With a roster featuring five experienced seniors and a rising sophomore star, BYU is determined to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in its second season in the league.

Primed for a Big 12 Breakout

Laying the Foundation

The Cougars have laid the groundwork for success over the past two seasons under Whiting's guidance, posting a respectable 32-34 record. However, the team is poised to take a major step forward in the upcoming campaign, as they look to capitalize on their experience and the talent of their returning players.One of the key factors contributing to BYU's optimism is the continued development of sophomore guard Amari Whiting. As the team's leading scorer last season, Whiting averaged an impressive 10.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, while shooting an efficient 39.7% from the field. Her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor will be crucial to the Cougars' success in the Big 12.

Veteran Leadership

Complementing Whiting's emerging talent is the experienced core of five seniors on the roster. These veteran players have been through the ups and downs of the program's transition to the Big 12 and will provide invaluable leadership and guidance to the younger members of the team. Their collective experience and knowledge of the conference will be instrumental in helping the Cougars navigate the rigors of the Big 12 schedule.

Challenging Non-Conference Slate

To prepare for the rigors of Big 12 play, BYU has assembled a challenging non-conference schedule that will test the team's mettle. Highlights include a matchup against defending national runner-up Iowa in the Cancun Challenge, as well as road trips to face former WAC rival UTEP and Pac-12 foe Washington State.These high-profile non-conference games will not only challenge the Cougars but also provide them with valuable experience against top-tier opponents. By facing such formidable competition early on, BYU will be better equipped to handle the demands of the Big 12 schedule and make a statement in their second year in the conference.

Renewed Rivalry with Utah

One of the most anticipated aspects of BYU's second season in the Big 12 is the renewal of the in-state rivalry with Utah. For the first time since 2011, the Cougars and Utes will face off as conference foes, adding an extra layer of excitement and intensity to their matchups.The first meeting between the two teams will take place on January 25 at the Marriott Center, followed by the regular-season finale on March 1 at the Huntsman Center. These highly anticipated showdowns will not only captivate the local fan base but also provide the Cougars with an opportunity to assert their dominance in the state and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12.

Navigating the Big 12 Schedule

The Cougars' Big 12 schedule presents a formidable challenge, with matchups against perennial powerhouses like Baylor, Texas Tech, and Iowa State. However, the team's experience and the continued development of its young talent give them reason to be optimistic about their chances of making a significant impact in the conference.BYU will open its Big 12 campaign on December 21 with a home game against newcomer Arizona, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting and competitive season. As the Cougars navigate the rigors of the conference schedule, they will look to capitalize on their strengths and overcome any obstacles that come their way.With a talented roster, experienced leadership, and a challenging non-conference slate, the BYU women's basketball team is poised to make a statement in the Big 12 and establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in the coming season.